Search found 424 matches

by Alf 101
Wed Jan 10, 2024 9:54 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Board Games for Two in 2024
Replies: 53
Views: 7083

Re: Board Games for Two in 2024

The OP is back after some consulting with my spouse. First off, thanks for all the suggestions offered. I will say we have played a lot of cribbage, which is a fine game; and while I've learned there are many variations, I think we're looking to launch in a different direction. The games that initially caught her eye were: 7 Wonders Duel Targi Splendor For Targi, she had a hard time figuring what it was about, and if the game play was fun, but the Tuareg setting was what made it stand out. She also looked at Pandemic, but wasn't sure it would be fun. Azul was another one, but it wasn't currently available on Amazon. I think her biggest question, and a very valid one, concerns replayability. Of these, and perhaps others listed (and not liste...
by Alf 101
Thu Jan 04, 2024 11:53 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Board Games for Two in 2024
Replies: 53
Views: 7083

Board Games for Two in 2024

Perhaps there are others on this site who enjoy an occasional board game. My dear spouse and I sometimes find -- when camping, weekend mornings, or just when we want to spend some time together -- that we enjoy sitting down to play a game. Up to this point, the games we've played are classics, namely cribbage and Yahtzee. But given the vast number of games out there, maybe someone can share some suggestions based on what they've enjoyed. Here would be my criteria: 1. 2-person game 2. Play length not longer than 1-2 hours (or at least not multi-day) 3. "Date night" qualities (not highly cutthroat; nor something like chess, requiring so much concentration it kills conversation) In my brief web search to this point, I've concluded th...
by Alf 101
Sat May 20, 2023 3:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Making Pasta 2023
Replies: 13
Views: 1474

Making Pasta 2023

I recently saw a thread about buying better boxed (or bagged) pasta, and how it can make a delicious difference. This led me to reflect that people can make pasta too, and have been doing so for a long time. In my experience this is not a quick or compact process, and usually makes kind of a mess. But I'm ready to try it again -- on a rainy weekend, for example. I've very recently come into possession of a pasta roller (a Marcato Atlas 150, to be precise). I do not have any other tools, if these are actually needed. So two questions for the learned board: 1. What besides a roller and ingredients (e.g., flour, egg, salt) do you need, or really helps, with making homemade pasta? 2. Here's where it fits in with the Personal Consumer Issues boa...
by Alf 101
Fri Mar 31, 2023 4:00 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What's your favorite reasonably priced gin?
Replies: 157
Views: 17811

Re: What's your favorite reasonably priced gin?

Thanks for the responses. I have this weekend to do some research. I will definitely look into Old Tom and Japanese gins, as I had not previously considered them. Our friends apparently have developed some interest in "old-time" (have to be careful using this term as the years go on) cocktails -- speaking pre-prohibition, 1940s and 50s kinds of things. I have learned there are things to learn about gin. It seems they had started with classic well gins -- Beefeater and Tanqueray, and liked these. Then recently they've delved into Hendrick's, a contemporary and more floral gin. I was thinking of continuing down that path, something contemporary, but may zig instead of zag. Going into this I had considered perhaps "The Botanist&...
by Alf 101
Thu Mar 30, 2023 6:59 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What's your favorite reasonably priced gin?
Replies: 157
Views: 17811

Re: What's your favorite reasonably priced gin?

I will bump this thread, as it seems the original post got much learned input, and I'm at an impasse. We are visiting friends, and it has been suggested a good gift would be a nice bottle of gin. Apparently our friends have discovered gin, and have been mixing up a variety of different cocktails. To date it seems they have been enjoying the usual suspects -- Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, Beefeater, and Hendricks. I'm nearly certain they would be pleased with any of these. But is there a more special midrange gin? I've been eyeing The Botanist, Monkey 47, or either the St. George Terroir or Botanivore. I don't have direct experience with any of them, but they seem well regarded. Any help is appreciated. Not only do I want to hand over somethin...
by Alf 101
Mon Aug 29, 2022 12:28 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Grill: Go Cheap or Not?
Replies: 71
Views: 6181

Re: Grill: Go Cheap or Not?

While I have been accused of being cheap, I would not go cheap on a grill -- depending of course how it is we define "cheap". A large sized Big Green Egg, for example, will cost over $1K. This may actually be a reasonable cost, but it all depends on your specific needs and interests. We have a Weber Q3200. This was a gift from my family 15+ years ago, when my wife and I bought our first house, a much smaller space than we have now. It's great for us, and the kind of small gatherings we host. Over the years, I have had to replace a few things, and this is where I've developed brand loyalty for Weber. Parts are easily available, reasonably priced, and easy to install. Living outside and seeing heavy use, the burner tube rusted out. ...
by Alf 101
Tue Aug 23, 2022 8:25 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Metal Roof: Recommendations or Regrets
Replies: 36
Views: 5608

Re: Metal Roof: Recommendations or Regrets

The OP is back, and thanks. The standing seam seems the way to go. Luckily also we have no HOA, and can't imagine the neighbors will care.

Two thoughts as I continue to mull this over:

1. How did any of you decide between the different roofing materials (e.g. steel, aluminum, other alloys) and options? It seems possible there could be some potential for upsell in the quotes.

2. About how much would you, or did you, budget for the project? Every roof, and region, is different. Quotes vary. But if we plan on needing a new roof in 5 years, and can begin budgeting for it, how much would you squirrel away? FYI, our house is a 2000 sq. ft cape. I'm having trouble ballparking whether this is a $20K, $40K, or $60K project. Thanks.
by Alf 101
Mon Aug 22, 2022 9:53 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Metal Roof: Recommendations or Regrets
Replies: 36
Views: 5608

Metal Roof: Recommendations or Regrets

With perhaps 10 years or less before an early retirement, my wife and I have been chatting about what home projects we might want to do while we're still employed. If/when the roof needs repairs or portions replaced, I was wondering what members of this forum could share about metal roofs. If you got one, do you like it or regret it? Or did you do the math and figure the ROI simply wasn't there? FYI, we live in a northern location, USDA hardiness zone 5a on the map, though summers are warm/hot. My understanding is, as long as things are installed properly, a metal roof will last longer -- potentially outlive us -- and can offer some energy efficiency in the summer months. In addition, I understand these can be pricey. Still I see a number o...
by Alf 101
Thu Jul 28, 2022 9:07 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much to pay neighbor for house sitting?
Replies: 144
Views: 12855

Re: How much to pay neighbor for house sitting?

One side consideration that people have mentioned is how likely this 18-year old is to have a party at your house. Some factors: 1. Personality of the kid. Not every kid wants to throw a big party. On the other hand... 2. Proximity to parents house. If it's you're next door neighbor, it's harder to throw a banger without drawing notice 3. Facility party potential. You do have a pool. How's your sound system? Do you have central AC? 4. Alcohol. How much liquor do you have in the house, and is it locked up? Having done similar housesitting duties at a similar age, I mostly enjoyed getting out of my own house, having space, and feeling more independent. I would follow your list exactly, and spend more time than required with the dog and/or cat...
by Alf 101
Tue Jul 26, 2022 8:54 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much to pay neighbor for house sitting?
Replies: 144
Views: 12855

Re: How much to pay neighbor for house sitting?

With a number of questions about whether you live in a HCOL area, and how old the kid is, there may be an easy solution -- ask the parents what they think is fair. For me, I would lean toward $100. You could offer $50, then round up with extra cash or a gift certificate on your return for service well provided. This gives you some flexibility, and establishes a standard if you want to rely on this kid again. If you come home and find your house trashed and the dog starving, clearly the "bonus" does not apply. One thing I would suggest is drawing up a very clear list of instructions. When does the dog get fed and how much? What are the numbers for the vet and animal hospital? Spell out the pool care actions. I would also include th...
by Alf 101
Mon Jul 25, 2022 2:38 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: High end light weight down jacket
Replies: 27
Views: 2369

Re: High end light weight down jacket

How exactly do you plan to use it? Many people talk about wanting to get a light down jacket, because they "don't want to look like the Michelin Man". These are not people particularly concerned with staying warm. I look at two factors with down clothing. The first is fill power power. This is the number you see like 550, 650, 800, or 900+. This is a measure of how much the jacket will loft (loftier the warmer), and how much it will compress. You will see higher numbers in more expensive down clothing. I also look at fill weight, how many ounces or grams of down are in the garment. These numbers allow you to compare, jacket to jacket. I'll also look at the shell material. I don't need a waterproof shell, but I will sacrifice weigh...
by Alf 101
Fri Jul 22, 2022 11:24 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Best Strategy for Beneficiary IRA
Replies: 15
Views: 1538

Best Strategy for Beneficiary IRA

Due to the sad passing of my mother, I am now the owner of a beneficiary IRA. This was the 401K and IRA she inherited when my dad died some years before her, now split between myself and two brothers. Deciding how best to allocate this is interesting, as I have always invested with the long game in mind. Yet this beneficiary IRA must be fully distributed in 10 years time. Here is my situation. My wife and I are planning on retiring a bit early, in (not coincidentally) around 10 years time. We have around $1.5M in retirement savings. Like everyone else, this has taken a hit in 2022, but we continue to contribute maximally to our 401Ks, Roths, etc. The amount I've inherited and is now in the beneficiary IRA is around $400K. I have not conside...
by Alf 101
Thu Jul 21, 2022 2:05 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inheriting a Home with Brothers
Replies: 77
Views: 9141

Re: Inheriting a Home with Brothers

As the OP, let me jump right in with some details: 1. Our personal situation is pretty decent. My wife and I have currently around $1.5M in retirement investments, with about 10 years to go retiring a little early, and maxing out our 401K, Roth, etc. We live in our own house, 1000+ miles away, which we should be able to pay off by retirement, or soon after. This is assuming no great financial calamity or expense. We could weather many storms, but it would delay our retirement. 2. The house is the family home, and has some sentimental value to the brothers. It is a great debate what it's worth. Looking at other homes for sale in the close area, I see a range between $800K and $1.6M. It has the land (1 acre) and a nice location, but very litt...
by Alf 101
Wed Jul 20, 2022 10:32 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inheriting a Home with Brothers
Replies: 77
Views: 9141

Inheriting a Home with Brothers

My mother passed away a little over a year ago, the will has been distributed, and everything sailed through probate. The IRA she inherited when my dad died has been dispersed threeways among myself and two brothers, as has her checking accounts and other assets. The remaining question is the house. One brother lived in it, with my mother, to help take care of her. In the past year, my other brother has since moved in with him. I live half the country away, in my own home with my wife. Neither of my brothers are married. The will stated that assets should be divided three ways, unless the three could reach an agreement for an alternate distribution agreeable to all side. The house, however, we haven't yet really discussed or resolved. I may...
by Alf 101
Mon Jun 27, 2022 2:47 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Recommend toaster
Replies: 55
Views: 5453

Re: Recommend toaster

I wouldn't overthink it. I seem to recall we have a standard 2-slice Cuisinart compact toaster. It lives in a cabinet, not the counter, and toasts bread. We've had it for 10+ years. It probably cost $20, and if we wanted to replace it now it might be $30.

If you want it to live on the counter, you might get something stainless steel, or otherwise consider the aesthetics of the appliance. There you go with what you think looks good, and like.

Toaster ovens take up a good bit of counter space. Some people love them, I do not. We already have an oven in the kitchen.
by Alf 101
Fri Jun 10, 2022 7:53 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Opinions on high end appliances
Replies: 119
Views: 12320

Re: Opinions on high end appliances

This is an interesting thread. Were I to approach this question, I would want to understand the performance differences and consider the ROI. Out of interest, I went on the Wolf Website and the MSRP for a 30" six-burner gas range is $6K. On the Home Depot site there are a number of gas ranges from Samsung, Frigidaire, and GE in the $800-1500 range. A 30" "Pro-Series" Sub-Zero refrigerator sports a $15K MSRP; a "Designer Series" one a little over $9K. Home Depot sports a number of 30" models in the $1-2K range. If you are selling your house, and it is a premier property in a HCOL area, high end appliances could be considered an investment. Will a high end appliance last 5-8x longer? Will it pay for itself i...
by Alf 101
Tue Jun 07, 2022 8:52 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: go to gas grill recipes
Replies: 35
Views: 2914

Re: go to gas grill recipes

It depends if you're looking to grill for company, or if it's weeknight grilling. Let's say it's the latter. Here are a few in that rotation: 1. Chicken Teriyaki Pretty easy. Grill boneless chicken thighs. While that's happening, make a teriyaki sauce (equal parts soy sauce and sugar, minced garlic and grated ginger, 1-2 TBPS of mirin, and maybe 0.5 tsp of corn starch to thicken). Let bring the chicken in and let rest, slice into strips, toss with the sauce, garnish with green onions, and serve over rice. 2. Chicken drumsticks Brine, put on a spice rub, and grill over indirect heat (around 350F) for 30 minutes, then flip and grill another 30 minutes. It takes an hour but mostly hands off. 3. Kebabs You can kebab just about any protein. We'l...
by Alf 101
Mon Jun 06, 2022 2:48 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: House Projects Before Retirement
Replies: 9
Views: 924

House Projects Before Retirement

This is something I've begun to think about, as my dear spouse and I have realized we don't need to work until age 65 to retire, and could probably pull the plug within the next 5-8 years. I always thought I would like to retire somewhere in the woods, in the middle of nowhere. As it happens, we live in a quiet neighborhood, have a number of acres that is mostly wooded, my wife has extensive gardens, and we are still about 5-10 minutes from both a hospital complex and grocery stores. There are many practical reasons to stay where we are. Assuming we would live in this house for a number of years, even decades, are there home projects you might recommend while we're still working? Examples might include replacing the refrigerator and/or othe...
by Alf 101
Mon Jun 06, 2022 2:30 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Visiting India for tourism
Replies: 93
Views: 11106

Re: Visiting India for tourism

I've been to India twice, strictly in the north, and for tourism -- specifically trekking. The Indian Himalaya is beautiful, and highly recommended, but if you're idea of fun is not walking up and down hill all day, there is certainly much else to see and do. In fact, having really only been in Delhi, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh, I don't honestly feel I can say I've "seen India". FYI, all our trips have been in September-October, post-monsoon. I've gone any number of places as an independent traveler. India is one of the few places I was glad to have coordinated and had someone organize the trip. It can be a logistically challenging place. If you are doing the Golden Triangle loop, or heading down to Goa, these are more common tourist...
by Alf 101
Mon Jun 06, 2022 10:40 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Grilling / cooking gadget recommendations
Replies: 57
Views: 4740

Re: Grilling / cooking gadget recommendations

Back to the OP, the combination of sous vide and grilling/smoking ("sous-vide-que") is both an effective and popular approach. The two more established sous vide machines that come to mind are the Breville Joule and the Anova Culinary. You will see the Joule topping certain rankings: it is small, and high performing. I went with the Anova, however, as the Joule has no manual adjustment, and you have to set the temperature through an app on your phone. I just like to turn it on, toggle the arrows, and set the temperature. You will also need a container. I use a 12-quart rectangular Cambro I bought at a restaurant supply store, and a cover that accommodates the sous vide wand online. This 12 quart container is a somewhat standard ap...
by Alf 101
Fri Jun 03, 2022 1:07 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Grilling / cooking gadget recommendations
Replies: 57
Views: 4740

Re: Grilling / cooking gadget recommendations

Thinking this through, I'd want to know if this is for someone who like to grill, and/or someone who has a smoker. The tools of the trade are a little different. For grilling, having good tongs, a metal spatula, and a silicone brush for basting is about right. I'll also echo what many have said about a quality digital thermometer. Thermoworks is highly regarded, and the Thermapen or Thermopop would be excellent gifts. A big, loud timer with large buttons would also be useful. Another idea for either grilling or smoking, is a small table to put things down on and stay organized. For smoking, a pair of welding gloves, a bag of wood chunks (applewood goes with about everything), and you might want a two channel digital thermometer. I have the ...
by Alf 101
Wed May 25, 2022 10:56 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Easiest/cheapest online degree
Replies: 58
Views: 6521

Re: Easiest/cheapest online degree

A bit late to the thread, but it's an interesting question among those who hire. Has any stigma associated with an online degree reduced over the last several years. No one will discount the value of 4+ years at a renowned brick and mortar institution, but with more work accomplished via online platforms (e.g., Teams, Zoom), might this have more than simple box checking value. Let's say I have no aspirations to work for a premiere finance institution in London or Manhattan, but am thinking of getting a MBA. I'm employed, so don't have the bandwidth for much on-campus time. If this degree didn't help expand my role in my current position, perhaps it will help as I look for my next. Still, I don't have $50K+ to throw at it, and have to consid...
by Alf 101
Thu Apr 21, 2022 3:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Suggestions for trip to Ireland
Replies: 38
Views: 3000

Re: Suggestions for trip to Ireland

Just to note, we will be spending a couple of days in Dublin on our way out. We thought we'd get out into the countryside first, then enjoy the city at the end of our trip.
by Alf 101
Thu Apr 21, 2022 2:01 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Suggestions for trip to Ireland
Replies: 38
Views: 3000

Re: Suggestions for trip to Ireland

I'll jump in on this thread, though our plans are a bit different than the OP. My wife and I typically like to go traveling in September, and will be going to Ireland. We had been looking at a number of places in Eastern Europe, but thought it might be best to wait on that. Our plans are quite loose. We fly into Dublin, arriving early in the morning, and will take our rental car and head out. We'll probably spend our first night in Sligo County or thereabouts. Then we'll head north, then south and around again. We have nearly two weeks. We like to hike. My wife is an avid photographer, fond of seacoasts and birds. I like to talk, and have been told I seem unable to walk through a parking lot without striking up a conversation. Our plan is t...
by Alf 101
Mon Feb 28, 2022 10:32 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What are your hobbies?
Replies: 561
Views: 17392

Re: Please find me a hobby to spend the weekend

I believe choosing the best options will depend on your location, in particular, how urban or rural is your home base. If fairly rural, gardening has been recommended. Most states have a "Master Gardener" certification, and growing things can be intellectually challenging. It can be as simple as a small herb garden, to designing and implementing a pollinator garden. You will also find community with other gardeners through social media groups and perennial exchanges. Beekeeping is also an interesting idea, if you're in the country enough. Many areas have bee clubs, so you have a group you could join, an interesting pursuit, and again -- no end of things to learn. If you're in a place with hiking options, this is a good thing to ex...
by Alf 101
Wed Feb 23, 2022 11:23 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Tequila and Orange Liquor for Margaritas
Replies: 50
Views: 5094

Re: Tequila and Orange Liquor for Margaritas

Some good advice, but like many things, it depends. If it's summer, my guests are frequent flyers, and I'm making many margaritas, I would go with El Jimador (reposado) and Dekuyper triple sec. El Jimador is not necessarily the smoothest, but it is the most popular tequila in Mexico, and I find it superior to Hornitos or anything Jose Cuervo has in that same price range. If it's just us, or a first time or nicer crowd, I might up my game. El Jimador (the standard) still works, but Espolon is a step up and quite good for the value. I also like Olmeca Altos for a plata, which I use more when making Palomas. That's about as high end as I'll go for mixed drinks. Fresh limes are key. As a guest I have been served a margarita from a bottled mix, ...
by Alf 101
Mon Feb 14, 2022 10:40 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Need opinion on pork ribs
Replies: 43
Views: 3582

Re: Need opinion on pork ribs

I think I fall with the consensus here, and am hoping the OP can add some clarifying information. If I have never cooked ribs before, and am attempting to prepare an adequate amount to 25 people coming to my home, I see many ways for this to fail. If I am helping with an event, and coordinating or supplying others who have smokers and will help, we're back in the range of the possible. I have a smoker, but not a large one (Weber Smokey Mountain 18.5") and generally smoke two racks. I would need a rib rack or would have to roll up the ribs to increase that number, and some people do that. A good target, as some have mentioned, is 1/2 rack per person. You will also have sides, but the ribs are the main attraction. So 13 racks of ribs. Ho...
by Alf 101
Mon Jan 31, 2022 5:55 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Traveling to Slovakia
Replies: 10
Views: 1460

Re: Traveling to Slovakia

Thanks for the response so far. I will say, the seed of the idea to visit Slovakia was not spending a week in Bratislava. It came on the radar after seeing pictures from Slovak National Park, then looking into it a little and discovering a good number of other national parks in a modestly sized country. We would likely be most interested heading east into the country, taking some long hikes, soaking in the local color and natural beauty. I'm not sure if that's a vacation any Bogleheads have taken or considered, but I'd be curious if they have. The list right now is a little all over the place: Slovakia, Peru, and Ireland are all on the short list; Costa Rica and Newfoundland just off the podium. I've known people who visited Romania and sai...
by Alf 101
Mon Jan 31, 2022 9:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Traveling to Slovakia
Replies: 10
Views: 1460

Traveling to Slovakia

My wife and I sat down this weekend and started talking about some travel ideas for 2022. Sure, we have no idea what will happen over the next few months, nor do we ever. But we are avid travelers, have felt a bit sidelined the past couple years, and are bouncing around ideas for a simple trip. One place that came up is Slovakia. This is seems not an uncommon place to visit, but probably not a first line destination, which is appealing. Bratislava I have heard is charming, but the real appeal would be hiking -- the Tatras and Slovak Paradise Park. There also seem a number UNESCO World Heritage sites. This wouldn't be a long trip, maybe a 1+ weeks. Has anyone spent time in Slovakia, and is willing to share their impressions? There are some o...
by Alf 101
Thu Jan 06, 2022 12:04 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Is a 3 car garage really necessary?
Replies: 202
Views: 15743

Re: Is a 3 car garage really necessary?

Like others have said, go for it. Why not? If you can afford it, and your lot size still means you'd have some lawn space, it's a nice luxury and probably helps the resale. One related suggestion is a feature our current house has. There is a large attached shed space behind the garage, still part of the garage building, and covered by the garage's sloping roof. It's maybe 15' wide and extends the full width of the garage, with a barn door on the side lawn. This is a primo storage space for us: lawn mower, snow blower, kayaks and canoe, lawn tools, garden pots and decor in the winter, lawn furniture in the winter, wood for the fire pit, etc. I suppose with a three car garage, you may not need this space, but there is ancient wisdom in the s...
by Alf 101
Mon Oct 18, 2021 12:10 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Paying Down the House Before Retirement
Replies: 136
Views: 12480

Re: Paying Down the House Before Retirement

Thanks. The reason I looked at the 4% withdraw on the current portfolio was as a worst case. What if both my wife and I were laid off? What if we couldn't find adequate work without relocating? I know several people, whose companies downsized, and found themselves out of work in their mid-50s. I feel like we're doing quite well, but don't want to get smug. As it happens, both of us are in stable positions, in our high earning years, and are hoping to double this (or more). Naturally we'll want to travel in retirement, have peace of mind, and weather any bumps. Since we came up with the idea of retiring early maybe a year ago, we began a spending analysis. Since we're overpaying on our monthly mortgage, and maximizing our retirement contribu...
by Alf 101
Mon Oct 18, 2021 9:40 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Paying Down the House Before Retirement
Replies: 136
Views: 12480

Re: Paying Down the House Before Retirement

The OP has returned. Personally I had recognized this as a complex and intertwined decision, and have benefitted from the discussion and range of opinions. Naturally I don't expect an online board to decide for me -- it is personal finance -- but this is a learned and quality group I have learned a great deal from. My decision in this case touches on a host of different questions. One is how much is enough, where we each draw the line between portfolio growth and preservation. Where each of us falls on this spectrum will run the gamut. I am about to receive an unfortunate windfall. We have employed the services of a highly recommended accountant to help navigate the Secure Act, as my Mother inherited an IRA after my Father's death, which no...
by Alf 101
Thu Oct 14, 2021 9:05 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Paying Down the House Before Retirement
Replies: 136
Views: 12480

Paying Down the House Before Retirement

My question is when does it ever make sense to pay off your mortgage early. Or in my case, would it make sense to make a one-time chunk payment to reduce the term. Here is our situation. Sadly my mother passed away. She had inherited a sizable IRA when my father died, and now this will be split between myself and two brothers. My older brother is the executor, and while in no way contentious, lawyers and accountants are involved to ensure we do this properly. My wife and I have done all the Boglehead things: start early, make a plan and follow it, keep it simple, and live below our means. We currently sit with roughly $1.7M in retirement investments, and are maximizing our contributions (401K, Roth). We have started to talk about retiring e...
by Alf 101
Mon Oct 11, 2021 11:28 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Does a condo ever make more sense than a house?
Replies: 81
Views: 9474

Re: Does a condo ever make more sense than a house?

It is said a home is the greatest investment most people make. That said, there is a strong argument for not looking at it as an investment at all. You have to live somewhere, and you pay for what you get. As for the stated dilemma, I'd say that depends. First off, 90% of net worth suggests buying a house certainly changes the OP's financial picture. Resale (recommend 2 BR and 2 Bathroom if that's a consideration) and appreciation should not be a problem in the Bay Area, and the initial post suggests either option will not be a stretch too far. Unlike many who've posted, I like living in a single family home. I like having my own space to take care of, and moving the lawn and small home projects aren't bad. If you aren't especially handy, y...
by Alf 101
Wed Sep 08, 2021 11:34 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Game table(s), etc. for basement?
Replies: 22
Views: 2234

Re: Game table(s), etc. for basement?

This is an interesting dilemma, or rather opportunity. Reading the response, I would back up and frame the question a little differently -- how can I create a social (i.e., hangout) space in my newly renovated basement? First, is there a central social place elsewhere in the house? For example, you may not want to put up a large screen TV in the basement, if there's a great place everyone watches movies and sports already, conveniently next to the kitchen and a bathroom. But if the basement now opens up a great entertaining space you don't currently have, this is good. I would start with some comfortable seating. If you want to put up a TV to watch movies and play video games, you kind of need that. I'd put a dart cabinet on the wall. I'd a...
by Alf 101
Tue Sep 07, 2021 12:27 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Kitchen Tools
Replies: 20
Views: 3021

Re: Kitchen Tools

A little late to the party, but I'll throw my opinion into the mix. I would not buy this utensil crock set. It looks nice, but I would think about how you would use it, if in fact you like to cook. I have a similar caddy within close arm's reach at the stove, and have a few different things: two wooden spoons, two silicone spatulas, a silicone spatula, a fish spatula, a ladle, and a pair of 9" tongs with silicone heads. Most of these are probably OXO products, bought online, at a kitchen supply store, or with a Bed, Bath, and Beyond coupon. Having owned many spatulas and wooden spoons, I generally want to buy these in-person, so I can see how they feel in my hand. Everyone has different preferences in the kitchen, which is why I would ...
by Alf 101
Thu Jul 15, 2021 12:32 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best Day of the Week for a Meeting?
Replies: 12
Views: 902

Best Day of the Week for a Meeting?

This isn't an investment or consumer issue, per se, but it is a question I have that I thought I could find many opinions here.

Admittedly asking which day of the week is best to hold a meeting is a bit loaded -- what kind of meeting? It's a project recruiting one, with management support. Some details:

1. At work, but asking for volunteers. Opportunity could be interesting, social component, break from norm, but would be in addition to other work, though a break from the norm.

2. Would have to happen virtually (e.g., Teams, Zoom)

I don't want to pick the busiest day of the week; if people get busy, they just won't show. I'm thinking Thursday morning or afternoon, or Friday morning. Hmm. Thoughts?
by Alf 101
Mon Jul 12, 2021 12:02 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inheriting an IRA
Replies: 23
Views: 3212

Re: Inheriting an IRA

Lawyers are enlisted, and the mitigation strategy will be interesting. I have no plans to retire (or get laid off, for that matter) in the next ten years. As I am about to turn 50, these should also be some of the higher earning years in my career. I can increase my age 50 401K catch-up, which takes an additional $6500 off my taxable income, but may not have a lot of other clever options. Once this gets sorted out -- the trust, the lawyers, the will, and hopefully avoiding probate on other assets (e.g., bank accounts, house, etc.) -- a trusted CPA will need to enter the picture. There are two things I'm thinking about, and maybe someone who's been through this can weigh in. Of course a tax professional will be enlisted, but it would seem te...
by Alf 101
Fri Jul 09, 2021 2:23 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inheriting an IRA
Replies: 23
Views: 3212

Re: Inheriting an IRA

Thanks all, for the good advice. My older brother is serving as the executor for this. We have enlisted an estate planning lawyer, and the trust has relinquished ownership to us. My mother's IRA account, where the bulk of the money sits, listed the three of us equally as beneficiaries. We have determined she has no outstanding debt, and paid all her bills that arrived during the month of her death. There is a will that my brother is negotiating with the lawyer for other assets -- e.g., house, car, bank accounts. The will gives flexibility for us to either divide things three ways, unless we come up with a different agreed upon solution for the non-IRA assets. For example, my younger brother can use her car, we keep the house for now as a sh...
by Alf 101
Wed Jul 07, 2021 11:35 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inheriting an IRA
Replies: 23
Views: 3212

Re: Inheriting an IRA

This OP is back, and my apologies on the lack of clarification. In fact, some of this I will need to clarify for myself, so thank you in advance for your patience. When my father died, we established a trust/agency account for my father's retirement savings (401K, Trad IRA). My mother was not financially savvy, so we saw this as best, as she was able to live off investment income, and was prompted and funded for expenses such as medical insurance, etc. My understanding is the money in this account was transferred to her, the spouse, as an IRA. The difference in age between my parents was 2 years. In the communications I've received from the trust, it states that each of the three sons are "listed" to receive 1/3 of the total amoun...
by Alf 101
Wed Jul 07, 2021 8:16 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Inheriting an IRA
Replies: 23
Views: 3212

Inheriting an IRA

Sadly my elderly mother passed away recently, which is difficult, but it was peaceful at the end. It has now come to pass that we stand to inherit an IRA, inherited by my mother when my Dad died, and according to the will, now to be divided between my two brothers and myself. There is no acrimony or in-fighting here, just trying to figure out what makes the most sense in regard to taxes. Some details: 1. Her money was in a trust, most of it still in IRAs she inherited from my father ($1.2M), with a smaller amount in cash following her RMDs ($1.5K). 2. My older brother is in his mid-50s, I'm around 50, and my younger brother is in his mid 40s. In short, none of us are going to hit age 72 particularly soon. 3. Neither my older brother or I &q...
by Alf 101
Thu May 27, 2021 3:02 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Home Weather Station
Replies: 31
Views: 5218

Home Weather Station

I've been considering buying a home weather station. I'm not looking to break the bank or change careers and become a meteorologist, but it seems there are some affordable options. I would be looking for something I could mount in the yard, that would transmit temperature, rainfall, windspeed, and the like.

Sometimes weather information is useful for knowing how to dress when walking the dog in the winter, or when to turn the AC off and open the windows in summer. Mostly, though, I think this would be for fun. I've been looking at the Ambient Weather products, but does have a weather station they could personally recommend?

On the flip side, has anyone invested in home weather station and found it underwhelming? Thanks...
by Alf 101
Thu Apr 29, 2021 9:06 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Recommendations for a tailgate type gas grill?
Replies: 7
Views: 788

Re: Recommendations for a tailgate type gas grill?

This thread may end up as a short one -- here's another big vote for the Weber Q series.

We own a Q3200, a gift from my family after my wife and I bought our first house -- a smaller place, some years ago. It performs wonderfully, and will not die. I have had to replace various parts through the years (e.g., grates, burner tubes). With each I ask myself if it's time to get a new grill. The replacement parts are reasonably priced and readily available, so we just keep trucking along.

Now the Q3200 is the largest in that series, and may be a little large for tailgating. But there is a Q1000, Q1200, Q2000, and Q2200. All are fundamentally the same, so the OP has options to assess what overall size and cooking area is ideal.
by Alf 101
Fri Apr 23, 2021 1:12 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How to make strong coffee equivalent to Starbucks for cheaper?
Replies: 149
Views: 20564

Re: How to make strong coffee equivalent to Starbucks for cheaper?

I'm a little late to this party... I guess my question to the OP is do you want strong coffee, or coffee that tastes like Starbucks'? Or would you -- and it's entirely possible -- like better coffee than Starbucks? Roasting your own beans is a level of commitment found in a select few. I don't see that this is where the OP stands in his coffee journey. I also think espresso is a whole different animal -- perfect if you have infinite time, money, and the fire to geek out. If you want better coffee, you need to buy fairly freshly roasted beans. There is some debate about this, but the consensus is coffee beans are at their peak up to 3-4 weeks past when they're roasted, but usable/pretty good out to 3 months. This is why people roast their ow...
by Alf 101
Tue Apr 20, 2021 9:53 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Travel to Vietnam, Thailand, or India
Replies: 88
Views: 10505

Re: Travel to Vietnam, Thailand, or India

A most interesting thread...between my wife and I we've been to all three. There are posts already with more recent observations, but I'll share some thoughts. It's difficult to really "see" a region in 2-3 weeks. For example, we've made two trips to India, and it seems false to say we've "seen" the country. Still you can have a very nice trip. You can go on your own for an authentic experience, and learn much along the way. For the independent traveler, there are three constant questions: where will I eat, where will I sleep, and how will I get to the next place? By spending some money and using guides and help with logistics, you can eliminate these questions and focus on the experience. If this is your first trip to A...
by Alf 101
Mon Mar 22, 2021 11:15 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: New grill: gas vs. pellet
Replies: 50
Views: 5736

Re: New grill: gas vs. pellet

I would go for a gas grill. In full disclosure, I am the owner of a 13-14 year old Weber gas grill, the Weber Q3200, I believe. We bought this while living in our previous home, where we were not as blessed with space. When it dies, I have already decided to replace it with the Weber Spirit II E-310, another model right around $500. The only problem with this idea is that the original grill refuses to die. I have replaced the cooking grates, burner tubes, and regulator. Each time I think, if the repair is too great, and it costs too much, wouldn't it make more sense to put that money into a new grill? The thing is, all these replacement parts are easy to find, and don't cost all that much. It's hard to beat the convenience of a gas grill. T...
by Alf 101
Mon Mar 22, 2021 10:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: budget espresso maker
Replies: 69
Views: 5777

Re: budget espresso maker

As other posters have pointed out, "budget" and "espresso" is a challenging combination. This can quickly become an expensive hobby. First I would ask why an espresso machine? Coffee and espresso are the same bean, but different. For ease and simplicity, it's hard to beat drip coffee, and there are some better coffee makers out there. We bought my mother, who loves coffee, a Bonavita 8-cup model, and it does a nice job. The one thing that could beat it is a French press. I have an espresso machine, and still make French press coffee fairly often. It takes a forgiving coarse grind, near to boiling water, and 4-5 minutes for reproducible results. Plus the French press itself is comparatively small and fits nicely in a cabi...
by Alf 101
Fri Mar 19, 2021 9:04 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Irish Whiskey
Replies: 32
Views: 3606

Re: Irish Whiskey

Good day to all, and the OP is back. With this board's recommendations, and a mighty raft of choices to navigate, I settled on Tullamore Dew for my maiden voyage. Plus there were some fairly aggressive sales on Irish whiskey this month at the liquor emporium, which put this in the price range of Four Roses yellow label or Old Forester 100. So I queued up the Sickbed of Cuchulainn, and pulled out a glass. I would say it was...pretty good, I guess. It was smooth (distilled three times) and tasted like whiskey, but it didn't leave me with a whole lot else to say about it. One note, but not a bad note. I can see this hitting the mark when ice fishing, on a canoe trip, or hanging out with friends on a cold and dark night. I could mix it with cof...
by Alf 101
Wed Mar 17, 2021 1:53 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Irish Whiskey
Replies: 32
Views: 3606

Irish Whiskey

I will admit, in full disclosure, to being 0% Irish. Yet I was also raised to not miss a chance to celebrate, but St. Patrick's Day is a challenge -- even under non-COVID conditions. I don't especially care for corned beef or Guiness, and a Shamrock shake sounds off-putting -- to be nice about it. Last year I made colcannon, after which my wife told me I didn't have to do that again. I suppose I could just go home and listen to the Pogues, but I had another thought -- Irish whiskey. This may not be completely original, as many varieties of this seem to be on sale this month for holiday tipplers, but it is also something I cannot recall trying. This is not for any high and mighty reasons, or on the other end of the spectrum, spirited evening...
by Alf 101
Tue Mar 16, 2021 2:13 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Persian/Oriental rug - value and options?
Replies: 15
Views: 2036

Re: Persian/Oriental rug - value and options?

Now you're looking to sell this, not buy it in the country of origin, but if you were you would appreciate all the challenges in determining the value of a carpet. Rug salespeople in various parts of the world have been alternately fairly honest brokers, and less so. It is fairly easy to tell if it is machine made or handmade by flipping it over and looking at the back of it. Beyond that, I would agree with the advice given by others, to send pictures or take it to a reputable Persian carpet dealer. Do a bit of research. Here too I would play a little coy, not waltz in and say you need to get rid of it -- maybe you're asking on behalf of a family member, trying to learn something about this rug. I wouldn't get your hopes up too much, but I ...